The Greek word chrēsis, represented by G5540, denotes employment or use, specifically in the context of sexual intercourse as an occupation of the body. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, establishing a very specific and focused meaning within scripture.
In the biblical narrative, G5540 appears exclusively in the context of actions that are contrary to nature. It is used to describe how women "did change the natural use" Romans 1:26 and how men were "leaving the natural use of the woman" Romans 1:27. In both instances, the term is qualified by the word "natural" G5446 and is presented as a departure from an established order, an action taken after God "gave them up unto vile affections" Romans 1:26.
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of G5540:
- G5446 physikós (natural): This adjective directly modifies use in both of its occurrences, defining the standard from which a deviation occurs Romans 1:26.
- G5449 phýsis (nature): This term is set in direct opposition to the actions described. The change from the natural use is described as being "against nature" Romans 1:26.
- G3337 metallássō (to exchange): This verb describes the action performed upon the natural use. The same word is used to describe how people "changed the truth of God into a lie" Romans 1:25, linking the physical act to a spiritual exchange.
- G730 árrhēn (male) and G2338 thēlys (female): These terms identify the parties involved in the "natural use" that was abandoned. The text specifies men G730 leaving the use of the woman G2338 Romans 1:27, grounding the concept of what is natural in the distinction between male and female.
The theological weight of G5540 is significant within its narrow context, highlighting a departure from God's created order.
- Abandonment of Natural Order: The term is central to a passage describing a rejection of what is natural. This abandonment is presented as a direct consequence of humanity turning away from God, for which "God gave them up" Romans 1:26.
- Symptom of a Deeper Error: The misuse of the body described by G5540 is linked to a spiritual "error" G4106. The passage states that those involved were "receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet" Romans 1:27.
- Consequence of Idolatry: The context of Romans 1 shows that abandoning the "natural use" is a consequence that follows the initial sin of idolatry, where people "changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator" Romans 1:25.
In summary, G5540 is more than a simple term for use. It is a key word in a theological argument about the consequences of rejecting God. Found only in Romans 1, it defines a "natural use" that is abandoned as a result of divine judgment on idolatry. It illustrates how a specific physical act is presented in Scripture as a symptom of a deeper spiritual rebellion against the Creator and His established order.
TRV